The Importance of Removing Winter Storm Damage Before Spring
Winter storms can leave a significant mark on your property, especially on the trees that grace your landscape. Snow, ice, and strong winter winds often cause branches to crack, split, or fall, creating a range of potential hazards. As we transition into spring, it is essential to address winter storm damage promptly. Not only does this ensure the safety of your property, but it also promotes the long-term health of your trees.
How to Identify Winter Storm Damage
Before diving into solutions, it’s important to recognise the signs of winter storm damage. Look out for:
- Broken or Hanging Branches: These are the most apparent signs of damage. Heavy snow and ice can cause branches to snap, leaving them hanging precariously.
- Splintered or Split Branches: The weight of ice or the force of wind can splinter branches, compromising their structural integrity.
- Leaning or Uprooted Trees: Strong winds can cause trees to lean or even partially uproot. These trees pose a significant safety hazard and often require professional intervention.
- Cracks in the Trunk: Stress from heavy snow and ice can cause cracks in the trunk, weakening the tree and making it more susceptible to pests and disease.
- Damaged Bark: Peeling or damaged bark exposes the tree to infection and decay.
The Risks of Ignoring Damaged Trees
Failing to address winter storm damage can lead to several serious issues:
- Safety Hazards: Broken or hanging branches can fall unexpectedly, putting people, pets, and property at risk.
- Tree Health Decline: Damaged branches and open wounds provide entry points for pests and diseases, which can weaken or even kill the tree over time.
- Reduced Property Value: Unkempt trees and visible damage can negatively impact the aesthetic appeal and value of your property.
- Costly Future Repairs: Ignoring minor damage now can lead to more extensive (and expensive) tree care needs in the future.
Steps to Address Winter Storm Damage
- Inspect Your Trees: Start by walking around your property to assess the condition of your trees. Use binoculars to get a closer look at higher branches.
- Prune Damaged Branches: Remove broken or hanging branches to prevent further injury to the tree or those around it. This process often requires professional tools and expertise to ensure clean cuts and minimal stress on the tree.
- Consult Professionals for Major Damage: If a tree is leaning, has significant cracks, or appears to be at risk of falling, it is best to call a certified arborist. They have the knowledge and equipment to handle complex situations safely.
- Implement Preventative Measures: Once the damage is addressed, consider regular pruning to prevent future issues during severe weather.
Elite Trees Can Help
At Elite Trees, we understand the importance of prompt and professional tree care. Our team specialises in identifying and addressing winter storm damage to ensure the safety and health of your trees. We also offer a range of additional services to keep your outdoor spaces thriving, including tree pruning, stump grinding, and emergency tree removal.
Beyond trees, we are here to help with grounds maintenance, vegetation clearing, fencing services and more providing a comprehensive solution for all your outdoor needs.
Contact Elite Trees today for all your tree and garden needs.
LET'S DISCUSS YOUR TREE CARE NEEDS